Day-to-Day Adventures of an Indian Food Reviewer
We caught up with sisters Vannsshika and Laksshika Sodhi of Youthbitz Food to hear about their tasty adventures as food reviewers after their exciting nomination for the National Food Awards 2024!
India’s food culture is a feast for the senses. It has colour, flavour, and a kind of connection that we find tough to resist. Indians, as proud food lovers, are known for their deep-rooted connection to traditional meals passed down through generations. However, this rich tradition doesn’t stop at home-cooked meals; it extends to our rich street food culture and ever-evolving dining experiences. The country’s love for food is more than just about eating; it’s about savouring experiences and connections.
With a cuisine as varied as India’s, it’s no surprise that capturing it in your social media content is both a joy and a challenge. For food reviewers like Vannsshika and Laksshika Sodhi, this means exploring every corner they can and bringing the culture to the feeds of their audience. As we wonder how one approaches food reviews for their content, we also think about what it’s like to be a food content creator in India. So, we had a fun chat with Vannsshika and Laksshika Sodhi to know what their approach has been like.
How it all began
For Vannsshika and Laksshika, their food reviewing journey is not just about indulging in the flavours of India—it’s about sharing these experiences with a community of like-minded food lovers. Their Instagram page, Youthbitz Food, has become a platform where they show everything from street food vendors in hidden corners to fine dining restaurants in busy cities. Through their eyes, we get a glimpse of India’s food culture in all its glory.
“We started this page back in 2019 as a college project,” Vannsshika recalls. “I’ve always loved preparing different recipes and trying out new places. We didn’t continue after the assignment, but during the lockdown, we decided to restart it, and here we are”
From their content, it’s clear that the sisters have a deep appreciation for the diversity of Indian food. Their videos and posts aren’t just about what’s trending—they seek out local gems and regional specialties, often highlighting the lesser-known eateries. According to Laksshika, the process is organic: “If we feel something is good and people should know about it, we don’t think twice. Whether it’s a café, street food vendor, or even someone’s personal recipe, we feature it.”
The secret formula!
When it comes to choosing which restaurants or street vendors to feature, Laksshika has a simple approach: “If we feel something is good and people should know about it, we don’t think twice. Whether it’s a café, street food vendor, or even some common person’s choice, we feature it.”
This spontaneity adds a touch of authenticity to their content, making their recommendations feel like friendly suggestions from someone who genuinely loves discovering new flavours.
The good, the bad, and the Blueberry Samosa
While their job is to seek out the best food experiences, not everything they taste is a winner. “The weirdest thing we’ve tried? Blueberry Samosa,” Vannsshika recalls with a laugh. “I would only say—don’t try it!”
But beyond the strange combinations, the real joy for the sisters comes from helping others. “The best part is when people come to us asking which restaurant to visit, and they even wonder if mentioning us will get them a discount!” says Vannsshika.
On the flip side, the constant consumption of outside food does take a toll. “The worst part is having to take care of our health more carefully,” she admits. “Eating out regularly is part of the job, but we’ve learned to balance it and take it seriously.”
Connecting with local culture and dealing with awkward Moments
Being food reviewers also means they must be adaptable, especially when exploring new cities and local cuisines. Laksshika shares, “Yes, it happens. We’ve covered a few cities in India, and what we’ve learned is that people are respectful and appreciate content creation. It makes it easier for us to connect with them.”
Behind the scenes, there are plenty of funny and sometimes awkward moments. “There are times during shoots when the restaurant owners just stand there, watching how we work,” Laksshika laughs. “It makes us nervous, but it’s not really embarrassing—just part of the job!”
Discovering India, one plate at a time
Through their adventures, Vannsshika and Laksshika have discovered just how big and varied the Indian food culture really is. “Every place has its own vibe and customers,” says Vannsshika. But there’s one constant in the Indian dining experience: “Indians are big foodies. They love variations, but at the end of the day, they’ll go back to their basics. In North Indian places, Dal Makhani and Shahi Paneer are still the common orders!”
Their journey as food reviewers is all about discovery, cultural connection, and a love for good food. Through their fun content, Vannsshika and Laksshika continue to introduce their followers to the new trends in Indian cuisine—one dish at a time.
National Food Awards 2024
The sisters are also making a name for themselves by participating in the National Food Awards 2024, where they are one of the nominees in the category of the Best Food Review Duo for Local Cuisine. This event celebrates India’s amazing food culture and the people who bring it to life. If you want to join the fun, don’t forget that nominations are open until November 10th!
For more information on the categories and other opportunities, connect with us : https://nationalfoodawards.com/contact/
Also Read : National Food Awards 2024: Celebrating the heart and soul of Indian food culture